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Official publication of the GreaterOfficial Lakewood Chamber of Commerce | 30,000 Circulation - Delivered to every home in Lakewood publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodchamber.com
33 Number 89 Volume 34
September August 2016 2017
“20th” Annual Summer Stampede Car Show to feature innovator Jessi Combs, promote female empowerment By Daniel Van Hoosier
With Lakewood’s Summer Stampede Car Show just around the corner, there is no shortage of exciting new ele-
ments on the slate to commemorate the event’s 20th anniversary. On Sunday, August 27 from
9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Mayfair Park, the Female Empowerment-themed festivities will include a car showcase, a carnival area for the kids, inflatables, food trucks, live music, raffles and much more. There will truly be something for everyone at the show and one of “Stampede’s” featured guests will be local outdoor/extreme sport enthusiast Jessi Combs, the world’s fastest woman on four wheels. A metal fabricator, racer, designer and TV personality, Combs developed her sense of adventure as a young girl in Rapid City, South Dakota and later attended WyoTech, where she received a degree in Custom Automotive Fabrication, finishing atop her class. Her long-standing mantra, “taking the long way home,” developed as a child, when
Longest serving CA City Manager Howard Chambers retires
she had endless outdoor exposure and describes the experience as “a wonderful way to learn how to just slow down and enjoy what life has to offer instead of always hustling through it.” The entrepreneur has built numerous cars, trucks and motorcycles from the ground up and prides herself on un-
derstanding how the machines work from the inside out, all while breaking gender barriers within her field. “Pretty much if it has a motor in in I like it,” she said. “I like either fixing it, building it, racing it, driving it, playing with it, taking it on adventures. I love it.” (Cont’d. on Pg. 8)
Jessi welding in her shop.
Thank you for the help! You’re the b mb!
The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce’s fireworks booth was a huge success! Local businesses came out to help man the booth and the Chamber wants to blast out a fountain of appreciation to all those that took time out of their holiday weekend to help:
City Councilmember Jeff Wood
Pacific Trux
Howard Chambers in the 1970s (on the left) and today. After 41 years as the top staff member in Lakewood city government, city manager Howard L. Chambers is retiring on July 31. Chambers, 72, was appointed Lakewood’s chief executive in June 1976. He is the longest serving city manager with any single city in California. “I grew up in Lakewood, I’ve had a great career here, and I continue to love this community,” Chambers said. “But at this point in my life I’m ready to relax and
uncouple a bit from the stresses and strains of work life. I had a two-week vacation recently that really drove home that point for me.” “I’ve been blessed,” he added, “with how well Lakewood’s city councils have governed our community with stability for many years. They act in the best interests of the community and stay focused on what’s most important locally. I’m confident that my successor will be equally blessed. I’ll do ev-
erything in my power to assist in the recruitment and mentoring of a new city manager. My goal is a seamless transition. We start from a foundation of being a well-run city in good financial shape, and I don’t anticipate a problem.” “Howard’s impact on Lakewood over four decades has been enormous,” Mayor Diane DuBois said. “He’s one of Lakewood’s original ‘kids’ who grew up here at (Cont’d. on Pg. 4)
American Gold Star Manor
The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is the central hub for local businesses; we’re here to help your business grow and succeed. If you would like to learn more about joining the Lakewood Chamber give us a call at (562) 531-9733.
LakewoodToday
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My thoughts on Howard Chambers
By Mayor Diane DuBois
We’re fortunate in many ways to live in Lakewood. We have a well-planned community with wonderful neighborhoods, beautiful parks, recreation programs for all ages, well-maintained, treelined streets and a tradition of fiscally responsible city government. That quality of life doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from the work of many good people over many years. One of those good people, one of the best in fact, is Howard Chambers. Howard was born in Lakewood. He’s one of the original “Lakewood kids” who were part of the wave of young families who settled in Lakewood in the years following World War II and organized together to create a new kind of suburban city. Howard grew up near Mayfair Park, went to Mayfair High School, and then to California State University, Long Beach where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree. He later earned two masters degrees from Pepperdine University and the University of
Southern California. Howard worked for Lakewood’s recreation department for several years in his teens and during college. After college, he went to work full-time in city government, first with the City of Rosemead and then returning a few years later to work for his hometown of Lakewood. Howard’s intelligence, skills and connection with Lakewood were readily apparent and in 1976, at the relatively early age of 32, he became city manager, responsible for overseeing all city staff and city services. For 41 years, Howard has been Lakewood’s city manager. He (and Lakewood) hold the record for the longest serving city manager in any one city in California. Howard has taken his direction on policies and programs from the elected residents on the Lakewood City Council, and then consistently brought that direction to life and implemented it for the benefit of our community. The development of numerous projects in Lakewood serve as milestones of his long and productive career--The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, Weingart Senior Center, Palms Park Community Center, the modernization of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station, and most recently the new Pumpkin Playground at San Martin Park and the renovated Veterans Memorial Plaza and Douglas jet plane at Del Valle Park. Howard excels in fiscal matters. Decades of his careful budgets enabled Lakewood to weather economic downturns in the 1980s,
1990s, and after the 2007-8 recession without the cuts in city services that plagued many other cities. Perhaps his biggest achievement has been the creation of an ethic of top-notch customer service and standards for the work that Lakewood city employees do for their community. Howard’s peers in city management have also relied on him, appointing him to leadership roles in the California Contract Cities Association and many other agencies and panels. As a symbol of his esteem among his colleagues, Howard was honored earlier this year by the League of California Cities with their Award of Distinction for outstanding career service, leadership, ethics, expertise and innovation as a city manager. On July 31, Howard will be retiring from Lakewood. At the age of 72 with more than 50 years of full-time work, he certainly deserves to enjoy many retirement years ahead. Lakewood will miss him greatly. But fortunately, Howard is leaving behind a huge legacy of achievements, standards for public service and financial stability. He is also leaving behind a solid team of Lakewood managers that he has hired, trained and supervised over many years. Those staff managers and their experience will help us make this transition successfully. The Lakewood City Council will carefully select a new city manager, and Lakewood will carry on. But our future will be so much better because of the many years that Howard Chambers did great work for all of us here in Lakewood.
Thank you Howard! u
C i t y Spotlight Kids have no reason to be bored this summer Exciting youth and family opportunities are happening this summer in Lakewood. For daily activities, check out the Lakewood Summer Recreation Catalog at lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog or call Lakewood’s Recreation and Community Services Department at 562866-9771, extension 2408.
(Cont’d. on Pg. 4)
August 2017 Here are just a few examples: • McCormick Pool, at 3300 Del Amo Blvd. and Mayfair Pool, at 5720 Clark Ave., feature themed swim nights each Friday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for Lakewood residents at a cost of $3 per person. Adult ID with proof of residency required. • Bring the entire family out to Monte Verde Park and enjoy an evening of free family fun and movie entertainment at Movie Night Under the Stars with the animated feature “Finding Dory” on August 4. Pre-movie festivities begin at 7 p.m. with the feature beginning at 8:15. Guests can bring chairs and a picnic dinner, or purchase dinner from the food truck onsite, which will be on hand beginning at 7 p.m. Sales will help benefit the Lakewood Teen Action Committee. In addition, the Lakewood Teen Action Committee will be selling drinks and candy. To help us plan a memorable experience, pre-registration using class #7561 is required at lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog. Sorry, no pets or alcohol are allowed at the park. • On August 11, parents get a much-needed break with Parents Night Out, Kids Night In. Bring the kids to the Lakewood Youth Center from 6 to 10 p.m. and the highly qualified Youth Center staff will supervise the children while parents enjoy a night off. Kids will enjoy pizza, snacks, games and more! Preregistration is required and the cost is $5 per child. For ages 3 and older (children must be potty trained). Go to lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog to register using class #7564. FUN-Tastic Family Night Join us on Friday, August 18 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. when Noteworthy Puppets presents “Jack and the Beanstalk” The Puppet Musical. Original songs and beautiful handmade puppets tell the classic hero’s tale of friendship, forgiveness and following your dreams. This interactive show with live singing and fun, catchy songs will have you moving to the music. The fee is $8 per person ($5 for children ages 1-3, children under 1 are free) and includes a
light dinner of teriyaki chicken skewers, steamed white rice, lemonade and dessert prior to the show. Pre-registration is required. Call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 or register online at lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog using class #6818. Tot Lot registration coming up Tot Lot is a parent cooperative program for 2-5 year olds and takes place during the school year. Registration for the program will be held on Friday, August 4 and again on Friday, August 18, between 9 a.m. and noon both days at Del Valle and Mayfair Parks. Tot Lots meet Monday - Friday, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the fenced, preschool play areas of the two parks. Parents are responsible for each Tot Lot’s operation and members select activities and excursions. Up-to-date immunization cards, including TB tests and proof of age, are required at the time of registration. TB testing is mandatory for all new Tot Lot children and working adults. The registration fee is $45 for residents and $55 for non-residents. Members may register an additional child for $25. Insurance is $5 per person and is required for each participating child and volunteer worker. For more information, call 562-8669771, extension 2408. Youth Sports sign-ups at all city parks Lakewood youth can sign up for free sports leagues at their local park. The award-winning Lakewood Youth Sports (LYS) program is offering Flag Football and Girls Volleytennis this fall. Sign-ups will take place August 12-19 at all Lakewood parks. Players must bring a birth certificate and signed registration form. There is no fee for Lakewood residents with proof of residency. A nonresident registration fee of $20 is payable at registration. The Flag Football program will offer two divisions. The Competitive Division is for youth ages 8-15. The Smurf Division, for ages 6-7, offers boys and girls a fun introduction to flag football fundamentals using a Nerf football and modified rules for (Cont’d. on Pg. 4)
August 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Patriot Day in Lakewood provides a time to reflect and give thanks
A parade of flags by youth groups is a tradition at Patriot Day. Lakewood has commemorated Patriot Day every year since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. City residents stop to remember and honor those lost in the terrorist attacks on the nation and those public safety officers and military personnel who are still on the front lines in the struggle against terrorism. This year’s Patriot Day commemoration will take place on Monday, September 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the concert grove at Del Valle Park (Woodruff Avenue at Arbor Road). Patriotic music will
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be performed by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Band and the Golden Sands Chorus, Lakewood’s award-winning women’s chorus. The annual “Thank a ServiceMember” letter-writing program will officially begin, with free postcards and materials available for residents to participate. Parking will be at a premium around Del Valle Park. Those who live near the park are encouraged to leave their car at home and walk to the event. • Bring a blanket or low-rise lawn chair for seating.
• Super Mex and Mr. B’s Kettle Corn will provide concessions throughout the program. • Dogs and alcohol are prohibited at all city parks. For more information, call Lakewood city staff members at 562866-9771, extension 2408. u
Business Page 3
The benefit of trust
to succeed, the one that dreams, and says, Yes, I can make it! That voice may be hiding in the shadows of self-doubt, believing it’s not good or loud enough. It’s time to come out of the shadows; to start trusting yourself. Stop listening to anyone who doesn’t empower you. Who are they, anyway? Don’t allow fear and doubt to stomp on that inner voice that has your best interest at heart. Trust that you can handle any situation that comes your way, and most importantly, trust that you are good enough! u
Quite a few people struggle with self-trust. They look to others to validate them and to define who they are. That’s quite disempowering. You may not realize it, but trusting yourself can be overwhelming at times; hence why you, plagued by fear, doubts, and insecurities, hand your power over. You may have a brilliant idea, or a strong hunch to pursue something, but cast it aside because you don’t trust that what you perceive is valid, or worse yet, that you deserve it. Everyone is gifted with an internal voice. I’m not talking about the “naysayer” voice; I’m talking about the one that wants you
Rossana Snee is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and author of the newly released book, The Healing Alphabet, 26 Empowering Ways to Enrich Your Life. She does daily Periscope broadcasts (@ askjoshsmom), where she answers questions related to relationships & general life issues. Follow her on facebook.com/askjoshsmom, and Twitter (@AskJoshsMom). She is also available for motivational speaking engagements.
News
Community Page 4
August 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
City of Lakewood to host Red Cross blood drive
The American Red Cross, in cooperation with the City of Lakewood, has a blood drive set for Thursday, August 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Maple Room B at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Avenue. Donations take about an hour. Participants are encouraged to drink plenty of water, eat a nutritious meal ahead of time and bring a photo ID. All participants have a chance to win a Cedar Point or
Knott’s Berry Farm trip for four, including travel and hotel accommodations and two days worth of park tickets at www.redcrossblood.org/cedarfair. As a thank you to all Red Cross donors, Cedar Fair is offering a special price on park tickets through redcross. cedarfair.com. Walk-in donors are welcome, but RSVPs are appreciated. Make an appointment online at redcrossblood.org with spon-
sor code CityofLakewood. A new tool, RapidPass, makes it quicker and easier for blood donors to save lives. Visit redcrossblood.org/ RapidPass for information. Residents unable to make the scheduled event can quickly find other blood drives using easy search tools at the Red Cross website. Additional information on donations and volunteer opportunities are available at redcrossblood. org/volunteer. General donation requirements: • Donations accepted every 56 days • 17 years of age - 110 pounds, 16 years of age with Red Cross permission slip • Good health the day of donation • No deferral for individuals who receive a tattoo, by a licensed body art establishment and technician in California. They are eligible to donate blood. • No deferral for piercing if done in a sterile environment • Must have been in the U.S. for 3 years • Most cancers are a 5-year deferral • You can donate if you have high cholesterol • You can donate if your diabetes or blood pressure is under control • For travel restrictions, call 800843-2949, extension 7066. u
News
Community
August 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
It was all fun and smiles at Allison Tutoring...Best Summer Camp Ever! Lakewood Chamber of Commerce partnered last month with Allison Tutoring to provide an opportunity for two lucky young writers to be published in this edition of the Lakewood Community News. Students at Allison Tutoring’s Best.Summer.Camp.Ever. spent a day learning from the publisher, Joshua Castellanos, about articles, advertisements, layout, editing, pretty, and delivery. After they were armed with this newfound knowledge, they competed for this illustrious spot to showcase their abilities. Enjoy reading the poems of our two winners (chosen from a blind read) Bella Castellanos and Mila Khayet. u
MY PRETTY KITTY by Bella Castellanos, 4th Grade My pretty kitty is lovable at heart My pretty kitty is a piece of art My pretty kitty is a ninja in disguise My pretty kitty is an owl listening for prey My pretty kitty is a hawk rushing through the forest My pretty kitty is as small as a mouse And this is my pretty kitty…over and out
Bella Castellanos, 4th Grade.
FREDDY THE FISH by Mila Khayet, 1st grade My fish’s name is Freddy Freddy is rainbow, golden, and blue I like to play with Freddy, we do jumping jacks We can do 100 of them together When I play with my fidget spinner, Freddy swims away He doesn’t like it very much When I put candy in front of the glass, he gets excited He wants to eat it
Mila Khayet, 1st Grade.
Adult sports kicking off: Softball and volleytennis Signups for Lakewood‘s adult softball and volleytennis fall leagues will take place between August 7 and 18. • Softball leagues play on various weekday evenings and Sunday afternoons. • Volleytennis plays on Monday evenings. All ability levels are encouraged. Signups are taken at city hall. Registration packets including fees and further information are available now at www.lakewoodcity.org/sports or by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2408. u
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City Spotlight (Cont’d. from Pg. 2)
a fun introduction to flag football fundamentals using a Nerf football and modified rules for fun with minimal competition. The Girls Volleytennis program is a fast-moving game played like volleyball with a modified format. Girls ages 8-17 are assigned to park teams in four divisions for league play and city championships. Teams in both programs practice and play on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings from August 28 to November 4. Playoffs will conclude by November 9. Coaches needed for youth sports programs Adult volunteers are needed to coach Lakewood Youth Sports flag football and volleytennis teams this season. Teams will practice and play league games on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings from August 28 through November 9. Coaches volunteer an average of 3-4 hours per week. There are 1-2 practices and 1-2 games per week. No experience is needed. Coaches will receive training. Coaches are required to go through a mandatory background screening using Livescan. Check with your local park for details on how to get involved, or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408.
Canned Drive for a Dive Family Day On Saturday, August 19 from 5 to 7 p.m., Lakewood residents and swim lesson participants who have taken any swim lesson during the summer, and their families, can bring in one canned food item per person and receive free admission to McCormick Pool, 3300 Del Amo Blvd. or Mayfair Pool, 5720 Clark Ave. Lakewood residents should bring proof of residency and swim lesson participants should bring lesson cards to receive admission for their entire family. Fall/Winter Recreation Registration Begins Watch for the new Fall/Winter catalog of recreation and community services that will be arriving Labor Day weekend at Lakewood homes. The new catalog is packed full of fun programs and activities to make life better for all ages. You can register for classes and programs online starting September 2 at lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog, or by calling city hall at 562-8669771 extension 2408. Over 500 classes will be offered, with many old favorites and lots of new classes. Fall recreation programs will begin on Monday, September 25 and run through January 2018. u
News
Community Page 6
www.lakewoodchamber.com
August 2017
There’s fun for the whole family at Community Summer Fest
Lakewood Center is hosting a “Lakewood Community Summer Fest” all day on Saturday, August
19 with a Macy’s fashion show, kids’ activities, 15 food trucks and a free evening concert.
“Summer Fest is one of our ways of saying thank you to the Lakewood community,” Lakewood Center Senior Property Manager Deena Henry said. “As a Lakewood resident myself, I know how local families love an opportunity for some affordable fun close to home, and Lakewood Center wants to be a place you can do that!” The special day is sponsored by Lakewood Center in conjunction with the City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station. “Lakewood Center has been extremely important to the economic health of our community since it opened as America’s largest re-
gional mall in the 1950s,” Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois said. “I hope residents from Lakewood will come to the mall for this day and night of fun. I know I’m looking forward to it!” Schedule of activities for Summer Fest includes: • 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Farmers Market (near El Torito) • Noon to 2 p.m. – Activities at the Center Court inside the mall, including: --Macy’s fashion show --Honoring local heroes, such as veterans, Sheriffs, firefighters and teachers --Comic Book Superheroes meetand-greet for the kids --Drawing for the VIP Experience (spend $150 at the mall on August 19 and enter to win. Winners get $100 of free food at Summer Fest, VIP seating for up to 10 of your friends and family for the evening’s events, and a $500 mall gift card. Terms and conditions ap-
FREE
Estate Planning Seminar
“How to Protect Assets for your Family” Saturday, August 19th 10-11am Mayfair Park in the Activity Room 5720 Clark Ave. Lakewood, 90712 To register, call
(562) 338-2883 or go to: www.guardyournestegg. com Event hosted & sponsored by Phillip Nunez, Keller Williams Realty Bre#01421807
ply, see shoplakewoodcenter.com/ events for details). • 4 to 9 p.m. – Outdoor fun near El Torito, including: --Food trucks --Inflatable fun zone for kids --There will be large tents for shade with chairs. Feel free to bring your own chairs too. • 6 to 9 p.m. – Free concert by the L.A. All Stars (one of the favorite bands from the Lakewood Civic Center Block Party). For more information, call Lakewood Center at 562-633-0437 or go to shoplakewoodcenter.com/ events. u
Concerts in the Park coming to a close in August Lakewood’s popular summer concert series runs every Thursday evening through August 10 at Del Valle Park from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visiting gourmet food trucks offer different foodie-fun each evening including gourmet hot dogs, specialty tacos, burgers, sandwiches, BBQ and sweet desserts. Mr. B’s Kettle Corn will also be on site selling kettle corn and shaved ice. A percentage of the proceeds benefit local community groups. Bring your picnic blanket and low-back chairs and dine with your friends and neighbors while listening to great sounds. Please remember that dogs, alcohol and barbeques are not allowed at Lakewood parks. Concerts in the Park are solely supported by generous area businesses and concert patrons. Platinum sponsors are Glory Days Sports Grill, Kenny’s Auto Body-Towing, Marisa Perez—Cerritos College Trustee, Pan American Association and Piazza Family McDonalds. Gold sponsors are Allen Tire Company, Fantastik Auto Repair, Mr. B’s Kettle Corn, PENSKE Buick GMC of Cerritos, Rotary Club of Lakewood, The Rinks Lakewood ICE and the Water Replenishment District of Southern California. Silver sponsor is EDCO. Bronze sponsors are In Memory of Mrs. Linda G. Plooster and TGIS Catering. For more information and to find a list of the tasty food trucks and food concessionaires for each concert, call 562-866977, extension 2408 or go to www.lakewoodcity.org/concerts. u
August 3 – Gold Rush (Country)
August 10 – Escape
(Journey Tribute)
Green August 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Green waste carts are coming to Lakewood homes in August
New green waste carts coming to residences. Starting July 31 and continuing over the following three weeks in August, Lakewood’s trash and recycling contractor, EDCO Disposal, will deliver free green waste rolling carts to every Lakewood single-family residence. It will take three weeks to distribute the carts city-wide. The new carts will be used in EDCO’s automated curbside collection of green waste, similar to how trash and recycling is collected. The new green waste carts will be left at the curbside of each home on the normal trash day for that home between July 31 and August 18. The week immediately after the new carts arrive, residents can leave
their old green waste containers at their curbside on their normal trash day and EDCO will remove them at no cost, or residents can hold on to their old containers. (After the initial pick-up day for old containers, if residents want their old containers picked up they will need to call EDCO at 562-531-3054 for a free bulky item pickup.) The new green waste rolling carts will be large (the same size as the standard 95-gallon gray trash cart residents currently have). Once the new green waste carts are delivered, EDCO will no longer pick up green waste in residents’ old green waste containers, as the system will
be fully automated. The only exception is that residents may still leave bundles of branches, etc. less than 4 feet long and 18 inches in diameter, tied securely with string or twine and EDCO will pick those up at no cost. After the initial delivery and upon request, EDCO will provide up to two additional large 95-gallon green waste carts to residents at no charge. For residents who have physical limitations or space constraints at their home, smaller rolling green waste carts will be provided at no cost. The new automated green waste collection system is expected to reduce injuries to EDCO workers that can result from lifting the wide variety of often unpredictably heavy green waste containers that residents have. The automated system, using larger green waste containers, is also expected to increase the amount of green waste recycling achieved by Lakewood residents. This is a free upgrade in EDCO’s service to Lakewood residents, with no increase in EDCO’s monthly charge. Green waste is grass, weeds, flowers, clippings and branches. For a complete list of green waste dos and don’ts, go to edcodisposal.com/lakewood/residential-waste-services. With any questions about the new green waste carts or any trash and recycling issue, please call EDCO at 562-531-3054 or submit a question online at edcodisposal.com/lakewood/contact-us. u
Living
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New, faster customer service for trash & recycling
The City of Lakewood prides itself on providing the best possible customer service for residents. As we all know, a key part of good service is FAST service! To speed up customer service on all trash and recycling questions, the city has now arranged for EDCO to be the direct point of contact for all Lakewood residential phone calls and online service requests. In the past, residents first called Lakewood city staff who then contacted EDCO. This new and direct arrangement of contacting EDCO’s customer service team should speed up service for Lakewood residents. EDCO is also open extended hours, including Saturday mornings. Call EDCO at 562-531-3054.
EDCO staffs its local call center Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m, and Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon. You can also call outside those hours and leave a message that will be acted on the next business day. You can also go online and leave a service request at www.edco.com/ lakewood/contact-us. If you are ever unsatisfied with EDCO’s service in Lakewood (or want to extend a compliment), please contact Lakewood city staff at 562-8669771, extension 2140 or email city staff at Service1@lakewoodcity.org. Contact EDCO with questions about: • Skips of your trash, recycling or green waste service • Damaged carts • Getting new carts for trash, recycling or green waste • Information on what can be recycled • Holiday service changes • Free bulky item pick ups • Disposal bin rentals u
News
Community Page 8
2017 Summer Stampede
www.lakewoodchamber.com.
August 2017
(Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
The latest title Combs has been given is “professional adventurer,” something she says anyone can achieve by simply getting out and exploring what’s around them. “It just means I know how to go out, adventure and have a good time doing it,” she said. “A lot of people on our planet don’t realize what this world has to offer us and the places we can go and things we can do and people we can meet along the way. A lot of people are locked in their bubble and don’t realize getting out actually enhances your quality of life, so I’ll take professional adventurer any day.” One of her most impactful endeavors thus far is the development of “The Real Deal,” a program she co-founded with Theresa Contreras, which serves to set apart women (and men) in the industry who share the passion for breaking the mold and setting new standards. “Real Deal is a lifestyle brand that promotes and empowers women in the automotive and industrialized industries through a hands-on way,” Combs said. “We set up our booth at trade shows and put
Jenni traveling in the wingless ex-military jet over the Alvord Desert in Oregon.
welding torches in women’s hands, children’s hands and anybody’s hands who really want to learn. We do the same thing with pinstriping and leather working and fun things that are somehow wrapped up into building cars.” Summer Stampede participants will get a first hand, interactive look at all of this and can visit Combs at the Real Deal booth. “One of our main goals is to bring confidence into girls, into our youth, something that they may not have known was even possible,” she said. “By placing us in the middle of the Summer Stampede Car Show, we’re able to reach an audience that
may not have ever known that it’s ok for girls to build cars or drive cars or race cars or have anything to do with cars.” In addition to hosting Xtreme 4x4 and Overhaulin’, Combs has appeared on television shows such as All Girls Garage, MythBusters, and currently host The List: 1,001 Things To Do Before You Die, on Autoblog.com. A lifelong love for speed and competition led her to the land speed world record, which she captured in October 2013 by traveling in a wingless exmilitary jet across a 13-mile stretch of the Alvord Desert (Oregon) at an average speed of 398 miles per hour (with a
top speed of 477.59). The previous record stood for 40 years. Combs is attempting to become the fastest woman on earth. Combs’ racing resume is highlighted by Ultra4’s King of
the Hammers, the Baja 1000, the Rallye Aicha des Gazelles (a nine-day all-female rally race which uses hand-drawn maps and a compass), The Race of Gentlemen (first female to compete in the carnival event, a race with a 1913 Model T traveling on the beach) and many others. In 2014, she became the first woman to place in an Ultra4 event and holds a national championship in the series as well. “My goal is always to get more people involved in motorsports and building things and taking ownership and being real and raw and doing it for the right reasons,” she said. “That’s really what I promote and empower, it’s my mission and my everyday lifestyle: stay true to yourself, do what you love to do and explore new ideas and options and path-
Store front of the clothing line “Period Correct.”
ways. You never know where it’s actually going to take you.” Next up for Combs is another major milestone as she will serve as the first female Grand Marshall for the world famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, beginning Aug. 4. Another featured highlight at Summer Stampede will come in the form of Bryan Calvero and what he brings to the table (Cont’d. on Pg. 9)
News
Community
August 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
2017 Summer Stampede
before you run,” he said. “I’ve never jumped the gun, I only bought what I could afford and what I liked. I never bought anything on ‘oh, I’m going to re-sell this or this is going to go up in value. I always bought cars in that fashion. I’ve collected stamps, baseball cards, basketball cards, you name it,
(Cont’d. from Pg. 8)
with his company, Period Correct. “For Summer Stampede we’re trying to bring cars, European sports cars, to that field, something I’m curating myself, not specific in year or make,” he said. “We’re going to have a good mix, but we’re definitely excited to give back to the city. I’m all about giving back, especially for the kids. Period Correct, as of next year, every item that we sell, we’re actually giving back to kids cancer. That’s our mission and something I want to push for. We’re looking to make this have a bigger impact.” Calvero has always loved cars and developed his clothing brand as a way to fuse business with his passion. “I’ve been interested in cars as early as I can remember, maybe four-years-old,” the collector/ race enthusiast said. “I grew up in Cerritos where there was a car culture, mostly Japanese cars. I had a huge fascination with European sports cars, from Ferraris to Porches to BMW, cars that had race history. I know there was something that existed for motorcycle enthusiasts, but not the car enthusiasts.” Period Correct will be on full
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from toys to a lot of other collectibles. That was always just a rule for me. I just try to stay in the moment and enjoy the cars I have now.” For more information, visit www.lakewoodchamber.com, www.iamtherealdeal.com and www.periodcorrect.com. u
Among other activities, there will be a “Kid’s Zone” for the young ones!
Bryan Calvero, owner of Period Correct clothing line in Costa Mesa.
display at Summer Stampede, along with a multitude of cars to show, potentially including the Ferraris, Porches and BMWs Calvero has always been interested in. “We’re a company that is trying to share the car culture and express it through fashion,” he said. We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, we’re trying to
use classic silhouettes and make sure all the inspirations are from cars and motorsports.” Knowing full well that motorsports and car collecting don’t fit into the category of cheap hobbies, Calvero said his key to success while building his collection and his company was always living within his means. “You’ve always got to walk
Advertise in the AWARD-WINNING Lakewood Community News. Call (562) 531-9733 or email advertise@lakewoodchamber.com
Lots of award-winning classic cars to look at for the car enthusiasts.
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August 2017
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Shop Lakewood...
Nat Geo Kid’s Club is FREE for the young ones
The 4th Friday of every month, Lakewood Center presents Nat Geo Kids Club event packed with activities for kids that are fun and educational. NAT GEO KIDS CLUB IS ALWAYS FUN AND FREE! The Kid’s Club is located in Center Court next to Macys from 11a.m.-noon. For more information visit www.shoplakewoodcenter.com/kidsclub, www.Facebook.com/LakewoodCenter. u
Lakewood resident and business owner wins multiple ribbons at Orange County Fair Lakewood resident and Chef Sydney Berman, of Syd’s Yummy Stuff, entered a few of her jams in the Orange County Fair this year and came out with three ribbons. Not only does Chef Berman produce award-winning jams, she also offers catering services for any occasion - doesn’t matter how big or small the party is. Call her at 562-716-4798 for more information, or to book a catering order. Chef Berman can also be found every Saturday morning at the Lakewood Farmers Market (Lakewood Blvd and Candlewood Street, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.), where some of her award winning jams can be sampled. Visit sydsyummystuff. com for more information.u
ATTENTION LAKEWOOD BUSINESS OWNERS!
Berman’s award-winning jams and ribbons - Apple Butter, first place, Apricot Jam, third place, and Apricot Blackberry received an honorable mention.
Get your coupons/specials posted on the “Shop Lakewood” Facebook Page. Email them to info@lakewoodchamber.com.
La De Da Salon is now accepting online appointments! Go to www.ladedasalons.com and book yours today. La De Da Salon is located at 11126 Del Amo Blvd. in Lakewood, next to the 605 Freeway. You can also book your appointment by calling (562) 865-0390.
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
August 2017
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Shop Lakewood...
America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses celebrates grand opening & ribbon cutting
Shop Lakewood and help Project Shepherd get kids back to school
Lakewood Project Shepherd is collecting “Back to School” backpacks and school supplies for low-income families with school-age children in Lakewood through August 10. The start of school is only weeks away and many kids in the community could use some help. New backpacks and school supplies appropriate for all ages will be accepted at Lakewood City Hall during regular business hours or at the Burns Community Center at 5510 Clark Avenue from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. For more information, call 562-925-7512. As you help Project Shepherd, consider that Lakewood has some of the nation’s most popular and value-oriented back-to-school retailers…including Costco, Marshalls, Home Goods, Target, Office Max, Dollar Tree, 99¢ Only Stores, Walmart, Kohl’s, Forever 21, JCPenney, Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack and Big 5.
Donating school supplies helps local kids in need. Did you know that as a Lakewood resident you benefit each time you make a purchase at a Lakewood store, restaurant or gas station? A portion of your sales tax dollar stays right here in Lakewood. That pays for parks, roads, law enforcement and all the features that make for a good quality of life here in our community.
America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses recently celebrated their Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting. In attendance was the Speaker of the Assembly Anthony Rendon, Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois, Dr.Suely Saro from Senator Ricardo Lara’s office, Lakewood Chamber President Joshua Castellanos, Lakewood Chamber Board Members Ruben Austria and Mark Dameron, Allen Trench of Lakewood Center, and of course - the proud executives, managers, and employees at this brand new store. America’s Best is located at 4429 Candlewood Street, across from Lakewood Center Mall. Their telephone number is 562-2952126. Welcome them to the great city of Lakewood! u
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
This back-to-school season, keep your hometown in mind, and Shop Lakewood…Stay Lakewood Loyal. And check out Shop Lakewood’s home on Facebook for coupons and updates at www.shoplakewood.org. (You don’t have to be signed up on Facebook to use the site.) u
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August is back-to-school time in Lakewood, remember to drive safely
Lakewood’s crossing guards help keep kids safe.
Drivers and students need to take care as Lakewood’s school districts open their doors again for the new school year in mid to late August. Helping get the community’s 15,000 students back to school safely each fall is a big job that the City of Lakewood has assisted with since the 1950s. Lakewood’s back-to-school effort has four elements: the
city’s “Suggested Route to School” maps, classroom instruction, Sheriff’s traffic enforcement and safety reminders for the public. Maps located at lakewoodcity.org/backtoschool show the location of traffic signals, stop signs and crossing guards. Lakewood is fortunate to have experienced crossing guards, some of whom have worked for the city for over 20 years. Parents should spend time going over the route with their children, pointing out the crosswalks and intersections they’ll encounter on the way to school. Even better, parents should walk the route with their children. Safety tips for children: • Always stop, look all four ways and listen before crossing the street. • Cross the street only at corners and crosswalks, not between parked cars. • Walk or ride with a group of people; there is safety in numbers. • When walking on sidewalks, look out for cars pulling out of driveways.
August 2017 • Always wait for a crossing guArd to control traffic before starting to cross the street. Safety tips for drivers: • Reduce vehicle speed to 25 mph or slower when driving in school zone. • Double parking for a quick drop-off is very hazardous for small children, who are invisible behind an SUV or van until they dart in front of oncoming traffic. • Do not let your children exit a car on the traffic side of your vehicle. Be aware, drivers can be cited for unsafely loading or unloading children near schools. • The only safe way to drop off your youngsters is to pull up to the curb in front of the school or at a safe location where youngsters can walk to the end of the block and cross to school through an intersection controlled by a stop sign, signal or crossing guard. u
School Start Dates: August 16th
Paramount USD
August 24th ABC USD
(8/23 for Carmenita, Fedde, Haskell, Ross & Tetzlaff MS, 7th grade only)
August 28th
Bellflower USD
August 30th
Long Beach USD
News
Community August 2017
Ease your pet’s back-to-school blues
Dogs, cats, and other pets used to more activity with family over the summer can suffer when kids head back to school in the fall. Back-to-school is a special time for families, but it can be anxietyprovoking for pets, especially for some former shelter pets that haven’t had stable homes before. “If pet owners know what to look for and are equipped with preventive and healing techniques, this annual rite of fall can be more pleasant for everyone,” SEAACA Executive Director Sally Hazzard said. A pet’s anxiety or sadness due to the change in schedule is often signaled by these behaviors: • Excessive pacing, barking/meowing • Urinating or defecating in the home or in unapproved areas • Escape attempts • Destruction of furniture or toys • Unusual chewing, digging or other frantic behavior. SEAACA has these suggestions to help pets cope with the transition: • Provide your pet with plenty of stimulation and exercise so he/she wants to rest when you are away. • Begin introducing short separation periods in late summer to help your pet become accustomed to the upcoming schedule change. • Foster your pet’s independence
by helping him/her play alone with toys. When your pet is alone, leave him or her with an interactive toy via a food dispenser, such as the Kong. • Do not punish or scold your pet for unusual behavior during the adjustment period (punishment could exacerbate behavior). • Leave the radio or TV on at a low volume so your pet does not feel as lonely. • Research if stress relief items may be suitable for your pet (i.e. pheromone aroma wall plug-ins, specially created CDs or stress relief garments available online or at local pet store). If the behavior does not improve, seek the help of an animal behav-
www.lakewoodchamber.com
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Free Family Play Day Bring the entire family to the park for a free Family Play Day event at any one of four Lakewood parks on Saturday, August 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Residents of all ages will enjoy the friendly competition of scheduled games and family activities at Mayfair, Bolivar, Palms and Del Valle parks. The morning will begin with a “parents vs. kids” softball game. Sack races, sidewalk chalk contests, Frisbee golf and a pickleball game are also scheduled. Participants can also enjoy a free barbecue lunch of hot dogs, chips and punch followed by more games in the afternoon. For those wanting to cool off, free recreation swim passes will be given out during lunchtime. The passes will allow entry to Mayfair or McCormick pools on August 5 during the recreation swim hours of 1 to 2:30 p.m. or 2:45 to 4:15 p.m. After lunch, the activities continue with outdoor games and a refreshing popsicle treat. Youngsters ages 3-7 can also keep cool in the wading pools at
San Martin, Del Valle, Mae Boyar, Mayfair and Palms parks. After the event, children can also play at the playground and explore their neighborhood park. Bring your friends and neighbors and plan to
attend one of the Family Play Day events. It’s a great opportunity to visit your neighborhood park, meet the staff and find something fun to do. Remember, play can be enjoyed by “kids” of any age. u
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Summer swimming programs It’s time to continue at Lakewood pools put your brain to work!
Kids can beat the heat locally.
You
ur ous ku or!
Daily open recreational swimming at Mayfair Pool and McCormick Pool (located in Bolivar Park) takes place through August 27, with sessions from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 to 4:15 p.m. Resident fees are $1 for ages 17 and under, $1.50 for adults (age 18+). Lessons are available. For details go to www.lakewoodcity. org/aquatics or call 562-8669771, extension 2408. Register online at lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog. Aqua Zumba classes take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at McCormick Pool on Mondays or Wednesdays. Shallow Water Aerobics class will be held 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays/
Thursdays at Mayfair Pool. Get details and sign up at lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog. The Mayfair Park wading pool for ages 3 to 7 will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through August 28. The wading pool at Palms Park is ADA accessible and is also open daily. For complete information, including the wading pool schedule at other Lakewood parks, please call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. u
Congratulations to Jasmin Henriquez, the lucky winner of the July Sudoku contest! To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8½ x 11) piece of paper, and then tape the puzzle onto the paper. Mail entries to: Lakewood Community News, P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at 4111 South St. in Lakewood. The winners are drawn by random. One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Tuesday, August 22, 2017. The winner will be drawn on Thursday, August 24, 2017, and the call to the winners
will be made the same day. If a message is left, the prize must be claimed by return phone call within 48 hours (two business days) or a new winner will be
chosen. The name of the winner will be published in the August issue of the paper, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle. u
Protect your family and neighborhood from mosquitoes Mosquitoes can quickly breed in water left standing just a few days. Serious illness and even death can result from mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and the new threat of the Zika virus. Zika is transmitted by the small Aedes mosquito and has serious repercussions for pregnant women. Aedes mosquitoes can live indoors or outdoors. Eggs are laid along the waterline of any waterholding container such as flower vases, plant saucers, buckets, used tires, and even plants that hold water, like bamboo or bromeliads. Eggs can remain alive for years, and hatch into larvae when conditions are right. Look for: • small, black mosquitoes with white stripes • mosquitoes active and biting during the day--even indoors! • immature mosquitoes (larvae and pupae) swimming in stagnant water.
Report black-and-white, daytime-biting mosquitoes to the Greater L.A. County Vector Control District at 562-944-9656 or www.ReportMosquitoes.org. This FREE service includes inspection and treatment. Remember the “3 Ds” of mosquito protection: • DEET: Use insect repellant containing DEET, Picaridin or oil
of lemon eucalyptus to keep mosquitoes away. Prevent mosquitoes from invading your home by ensuring window screens are intact. • Dawn & Dusk: Dawn and dusk are the most active time for most mosquitoes. If you must be outdoors at those times, wear longsleeve shirts and pants and insect repellant. NOTE: The Aedes mosquito is active during the day. •Drain: Clear your yard of any standing water, including water pooling at the bottom of plant saucers. Check toys or other small items left standing in water and wash them thoroughly if kept. Mosquito eggs laid in cracks are hard to detect and can live for up to a year. Remove or drill holes in the bottom of all plant pots, saucers, barrels, bins and old tires. For more information on Aedes and other mosquitoes, visit www. glacvcd.org. Untreated swimming pools can be reported to Lakewood City Hall by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2140, or emailing service1@ lakewoodcity.org. Residents finding any dead birds or squirrels (which could be a sign of West Nile virus) can report them by calling the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-9682473. The heavy rains of the past winter have created breeding conditions for other insects this spring and summer. Learn which are harmful—and which are not—by going to www.ReportMosquitoes.org. u
News
Community August 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
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Updates made to two-year city budget along Paramount Boulevard to be attractive and water-wise. Lakewood won a state grant to help pay for this project. Work is expected to begin by the end of 2017. In the new fiscal year from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018, Lakewood will continue to fully fund law enforcement services from the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department and the city’s awardwinning recreation programs for all ages. “I want to compliment my
council colleagues,” Mayor Diane DuBois said, “for fine-tuning a two-year budget that maintains Lakewood’s priorities of public safety, good streets and infrastructure, and wonderful parks and recreation programs for all ages. With this budget, we keep Lakewood looking good and working well, now and into the future.” You can see Lakewood’s budget by going to lakewoodcity.org/ budget. u
City Manager Howard Chambers, far right, presents his last budget proposal to the city council on June 27. In June of last year, the Lakewood City Council passed a $177 million balanced budget covering two fiscal years, from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2018. On June 27, 2017, the city council carried out a financial review at the halfway point of that budget and gave the approval to proceed with several new projects to update Lakewood parks, community buildings and roads. The second year of Lakewood’s budget includes funds for: • Rynerson Park improvements— including new restrooms and picnic shelters. • Monte Verde Park lodge improvements—including new flooring and new doors. • New picnic shelters for San Martin Park. • New surfacing for the Mayfair Park tot lot. • Burns Community Center enhancements. (At their June 27 meeting, the Council approved the lowest, responsible bid from De La Riva Construction Co. of Anaheim, to carry out the enhancement work, which includes a new outside elevator, new flooring, restroom renovations, and expanded space for building users. Work is expected to begin shortly and be completed in the spring of 2018.)
• Repaving Woodruff Avenue, expected to take place near the end
of 2017. • Re-landscaping the parkways
Community Health Talks Tired of putting up with debilitating joint pain due to arthritis? Join board certified Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Ramy Elias as he discusses the surgical as well as not surgical treatment options for joint pain.
MAKO System
The Mako System’s robotic robotic--arm assisted technology helps surgeons provide patients with a personalized surgical experience. Attend one of our orthopedic seminars to learn more.
Please RSVP (877) 346 346--1851 or
Dr. Elias will also share outcomes from cases performed using the Mako System, an evolving technology that utilizes a robotic-arm to assist with orthopedic procedures.
Speaker: Ramy Elias M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon
Wed. Aug. 16
1:00 p.m.
2:00 p.m.
Cerritos Senior Center
N/A
Wed. Sep. 13
6:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Lakewood Regional Medical Center
Dinner will be served. Please RSVP
Wed. Oct. 4
1:00 p.m.
2:00 p.m.
Cerritos Senior Center
N/A
Wed. Nov 8
6:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Lakewood Regional Medical center
Dinner will be served . Please RSVP
Wed. Dec 6
1:00 p.m.
2:00 p.m.
Cerritos Senior Center
N/A
www.LakewoodOrtho.com
www.LakewoodOrtho.com 3700 E. South Street Lakewood ● CA ● 90712 www.LakewoodRegional.com
Space is limited. Please call (877) 346-1851 to reserve your seat.
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August 2017